Three months ago, Pablo Shoreque Jr. joined the Pembroke Fire Protection District.
“I’ve always had a curiosity and interest in firefighting,” the 26-year-old Pembroke resident explained. “My friends think I’m crazy to run toward a fire,” he said.
Pembroke Fire Chief Mark Baines said Shoreque, who has lived in the township for nine years, is one of 13 current members of the volunteer department.
Funding is tough to come by for the department, so firefighter turnout/bunker gear can be a patchwork.
Shoreque’s gear is no exception. He said some of the items he received were old and worn out. He wanted to upgrade to newer equipment.
Knowing the department has limited resources, Shoreque had the idea create a GoFundMe page to obtain his new gear. His goal is $2,500. As of Wednesday, $355 had been donated.
Shoreque said he will use the funds to purchase a helmet and face shield, fire boots, coat, pants and gloves.